[Forensic medical implications in the course of sclerotherapy of varicose veins]

Complications are exceptional compared to the number of sclerosis treatments performed. We report 58 case-files with medico-legal implications. Intraarterial injections are by far the most severe complications: we observed 40 such cases with the following consequences: 7 major amputations including 2 above the knee and 5 below the knee, 6 minor peripheral amputations of one or more toes, 27 severe sequelae, mainly due to retraction of the triceps sural muscle. This type of accident occurs more readily after attempted sclerosis of the lesser saphenous vein "crosse", although other localizations can be involved: inguinal area by sclerosis of the greater saphenous vein "crosse", the lower third of the leg with direct injection into the anterior or posterior tibial artery or its branches. Subcutaneous injections of the sclerosis agent produce either simple inflammatory reactions or skin necrosis. Neurological disorders can be observed by direct damage to the nerve. Sensorial complications may occur by lesion of a cutaneous branch of the popliteal sciatic nerve. Other cases involve motor disorders. Pulmonary thromboembolic events (4 cases) appear to be exception when modern criteria for the diagnosis of phlebitis are used. General allergic and anaphylactic reactions are very rare and often related to overdose. The same is true for toxic reactions. One case of septicemia occurred after incision of post-sclerosis clots. From a medicolegal point of view, the responsibility of the practician is usually confirmed for severe accidents (intraarterial injections) leading to trophic disorders. For necrosis or limited eschars, the question is debated.